Stuart joined the Solent LEP in 2013 and carried out the role of Assistant Director of Strategy and Programme Development until 2021 when he was appointed Business Development Director. Stuart is also Managing Director of Maritime UK Solent, the private sector-led economic cluster partnership, backed by the Solent LEP, which launched as a limited company in September 2021. As Business Development Director at the LEP, Stuart leads on all aspects of the Solent LEP's economic Strategy, including skills, business support, sector development, innovation and environment. Maritime UK Solent is the regional arm of Maritime UK and works to bring together the Solent region’s maritime strengths and assets to champion and promote the region as a globally significant maritime cluster. It aims to encourage investment, support maritime businesses, drive innovation, pioneer clean and green technology in the industry, and develop a talent base for the future. Stuart sits on the regional council for Maritime UK and is a past chair. Prior to joining the LEP, Stuart worked in Local Government, primarily in Transport Planning. He managed Solent Transport, a partnership of the Local Highway Authorities of the Solent area and has an MSc. in Transport Planning and Management.